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Updated: Oct 22, 2025
08:45
Polygraphic Recording Procedure for Measuring Sleep in Mice
Published on: January 25, 2016
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Orexin receptors: Targets and applications.
Subhiksha Subramanian1, Mirunalini Ravichandran1
1Department of Pharmacology, Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research, Puducherry, India.
Fundamental & Clinical Pharmacology
|August 31, 2021
Summary
Orexins, hypothalamic neuropeptides, target G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) for treating neurological and other disorders. This review details orexin receptor structure, function, and therapeutic applications, including recent drug approvals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Orexins are hypothalamic neuropeptides regulating physiological and pathological processes.
- G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are key drug targets for numerous diseases.
- Orexin receptors have evolved from orphan receptors to significant therapeutic targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of orexin receptors.
- To discuss their structure, physiological roles, and therapeutic applications.
- To summarize recent advancements in orexin receptor-targeted drug discovery.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of orexin receptor research.
- Analysis of orexin receptor structure and function.
- Examination of therapeutic applications and drug development.
Main Results:
- Orexin receptors play crucial roles in various physiological functions.
- Dysregulation of orexin signaling is implicated in disorders like insomnia and obesity.
- Orexin receptor antagonists and agonists show therapeutic potential.
Conclusions:
- Orexin receptors are promising targets for treating a range of disorders.
- Further research into orexin receptor pharmacology can yield novel therapeutics.
- Recent drug approvals highlight the clinical significance of targeting the orexin system.
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